Most Interesting People 2017: Angel Cezanne

Why She’s Interesting: The Kent State University graduate created a platform for female-identifying and gender nonconforming artists like herself with Eleanor. The self-printed feminist publication showcases poetry, essays, cartoons and other creative submissions that challenge gender norms. She hopes to turn it into a quarterly publication this year. 

Button Up: As a queer feminist poet, Cezanne recognized a gap in which her voice was severely underrepresented. A single button in an adult novelty gift shop was all she needed to take matters into her own hands. Its message: “Do one thing every day that scares you.” 

Write Wrongs: As a sexual assault survivor diagnosed with depression, Cezanne doesn’t shy away from discussing mental health and sexual expression. “It’s important for those of us who do feel comfortable, to talk about it. You can’t get me to shut up about being depressed. Someone out there needs to hear it, and I’m doing it for that person.” 

The Howling: At 15, Cezanne was introduced to the sexually empowered social activist poet Allen Ginsberg. “I loved his queerness in his writing and the juxtaposition of filthy things in poetry. It was something I hadn’t seen before.” 

First Steps: Before Eleanor, Cezanne was a Cleveland Magazine intern. “Working at Cleveland Magazine was one of the best times for my mental health. I really felt like I was not just a kid pretending to do journalism in college, but I was really doing something.” 

Safe Space: Cezanne hosts live poetry readings and shows where female-identifying and gender nonconforming people can openly express themselves. Last month, she hosted a show to raise money for Access, a shelter in Akron for homeless women and children. “I want to show people that these punk kids who put on these basement shows are good people, and we want to help our community.” 

Timeless Wonder: Last year, Cezanne, a home health aide by day, helped seniors at a retirement community write a poem that won first place at a statewide competition. “I need a day job. I would prefer that day job to be something where I feel like I’m doing some good.”